Real Estate News 08/26/2025

Today’s News Synopsis:

In The News:

CNBC – “Trump’s new tax law expands 529 savings plan uses as families gear up for back to school“ (08-20-25)

“As back-to-school season gets underway, parents have many more ways they can spend funds in 529 college savings plans this year, due to President Donald Trump’s “big beautiful bill.”“

Redfin – “The Mortgage Spread Has Dropped to a 3-Year Low. That’s Good News For Homebuyers and Refinancers.” (08-25-2025)

“The difference between mortgage rates and the 10-year treasury yield has narrowed, signaling a potential boost for homebuyers. A decrease in the mortgage spread can cause mortgage rates to fall, even without the Fed cutting interest rates. ”

ScotsmanGuide – “New bill aims at boosting affordable housing in rural communities“ (08-18-25)

“The bipartisan Rural Housing Service Reform Act would modernize USDA programs”

PremierePlus Realty – “Beyond Redfin: Zown bets on AI, salaried agents and buyer rebates“ (08-26-25)

“Zown’s model aims to overhaul the way real estate agents work by introducing AI and specialization. “Most of the time that a Realtor spends is actually on lead generation, lead nurturing, cold calling, knocking on doors… rather than negotiating or getting deals done.””

Realtor.com – “S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index: National Home Price Growth Eases to 1.9% in June” (08-26-2025)

“The S&P CoreLogic Case-Shiller Index showed a further slowdown in home price growth in June, with the national index rising 1.9% year over year, down from 2.3% in May, as affordability constraints, elevated supply, and uneven regional demand continue to weigh on housing activity. This month’s release reflects sales from April through June, a period of stable mortgage rates below 7%, muted buyer sentiment, and growing price sensitivity.”